Secularism in Quebec schools has led to a ‘marginal’ number of employees leaving: education minister

This image shows a woman wearing a hijab. (Credit: Shutterstock)

The adoption of the law strengthening secularism in schools has led to the departure of a “marginal” number of employees, Education Minister Sonia LeBel maintained on Wednesday.

She was being questioned by Liberal MNA Madwa-Nika Cadet during the budget estimates hearings, an annual accountability exercise held at the National Assembly.

Bill 94, which was adopted last October, notably extends the ban on wearing religious symbols to all staff in schools and school service centres (CSS).

On Wednesday, Cadet wanted to know how many employees had been dismissed for refusing to comply with the new law.

“It’s marginal,” replied LeBel. “To my knowledge, we’re talking about dozens, not even hundreds, not even 100. It’s very minimal. (...) To my knowledge, it’s very few.”

According to her explanation, most of the people who were contacted were on recall lists.

“The vast majority of these people hadn’t taught in the education system for several years. (...) 150 people were contacted, and many of them aren’t even teaching anymore.

“The people (...) who were in schools, who held positions in schools, I think we can count them on the fingers of one hand,” she added.

- By Caroline Plante

- This report by The Canadian Press was first published in French on May 13, 2026.